Located on the eastern shore of Lac d’Annecy, Talloires is an atmospheric town in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France. It has been a popular tourist resort since the early 20th century, with its mountainous landscapes and medieval architecture attracting writers, artists and creatives.
Things to do in Talloires-Montmin
Spend an afternoon wandering through the heart of Talloires to admire its traditional Savoy architecture, including the 15th-century Chateau de Duingt. See the Abbaye de Talloires where both Mark Twain and Paul Cezanne have stayed and visit the Tufts University of Boston, which is housed within a former Benedictine priory. On hot summer days, a picturesque swimming bay can be accessed along the Chemin de Quoex.
For a longer walk, head into the hills surrounding Talloires, which are renowned for their craggy rock formations. Climb to the Dents de Lanfon (a mountain named after its resemblance to teeth) or soak up the magnificent views across Lac d’Annecy from the Roc de Chere. It’s protected within a 69-hectare nature reserve that attracts a diverse array of birdlife.
A short drive north of Talloires is the fairytale-like Chateau de Menthon, a medieval castle that rises atop a 200-metre-tall rock. Listed as a Monument Historique, some of its rooms are open to the public, with highlights including the countess’s bedroom and the recreated 13th-century kitchen. Antique furnishings and centuries-old artworks decorate the spaces, together with a Gobelins tapestry that dates back to 1730.
Getting around Talloires-Montmin
Talloires is around 25 minutes’ drive from Annecy and an hour from Geneva Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular buses connect to Talloires and travel throughout the commune, although renting a car will give you greater freedom to explore the area.